Teachers - Shinjuku Archives - Japan Switch

Mitsumoto Sensei

Chris — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 02:10:44 +0000

Mitsumoto Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School, Ikebukuro Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

"I love seeing my students grasp the subtle nuances of Japanese, learn new words and expressions, and eventually expressing their thoughts and emotions naturally."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

While living in the United States, I was involved in activities to preserve the history of Japanese immigrants and promote Japanese culture. During that time, I often received many questions about the Japanese language and culture. This not only helped me discover the joy of teaching but also made me realize how much I still had to learn myself. As I studied to answer those questions, I found I very much enjoyed learning alongside others. This naturally led me to pursue a career as a Japanese teacher.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I love seeing my students grasp the subtle nuances of Japanese, learn new words and expressions, and eventually expressing their thoughts and emotions naturally. Watching them become more confident and vibrant as they grow in their ability to communicate is incredibly rewarding. I also enjoy seeing how mastering Japanese enriches their lives in Japan, making their experiences freer and more fulfilling. Most of all, I cherish the joy of learning and growing together with my students.

How are your lessons?

My lessons focus on steady progress, using a textbook as the foundation while ensuring a fun and relaxed atmosphere. I support students in naturally incorporating Japanese into their daily lives. By including practical, everyday situations in the lessons, I aim to create an experience where students suddenly realize they are speaking Japanese with ease.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy walking and discovering new places. There’s something delightful about the unexpected discoveries you make while strolling through a city. I also love relaxing at cafes, savoring delicious coffee and sweets. Those moments are pure bliss. Watching movies is another favorite hobby. While I enjoy watching films at home, there’s something special about the experience of going to a movie theater.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

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The post Mitsumoto Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Kominami Sensei

Chris — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 03:15:39 +0000

Kominami Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"As students continue studying, they start to have more questions, and I enjoy helping them solve those small everyday questions while deepening their understanding of Japan. "

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

My aunt was an English conversation teacher, so from a young age, I was exposed to other languages. While I now study independently, I have friends from various countries and often found myself teaching them Japanese before I became a teacher. Over time, I realized how much I enjoyed teaching Japanese to others. Several friends told me, "you should become a teacher, you're really suited for it." It was the first time in my life that I felt I had found something I truly wanted to do. From that day, I immediately started researching how to become a Japanese teacher and took action. Now, I am proud to say I’ve achieved that goal.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I've always loved talking to people, regardless of age, gender, or nationality. Using language as a tool to get to know each other, share experiences, and build relationships is something I find most enjoyable and fulfilling.

How are your lessons?

In my lessons, I love discussing the cultural differences, ideas, and expressions that come up naturally in conversation. I truly enjoy this job because it allows me to interact with students from various countries every day. As students continue studying, they start to have more questions, and I enjoy helping them solve those small everyday questions while deepening their understanding of Japan. My hope is that, through this process, they grow to love Japan even more!

What are your hobbies?

I have many hobbies, but some of my favorites include going to the gym, taking naps, watching anime, reading manga, and engaging in fan activities. I have a lot of knowledge about anime, probably more than the average person, so let’s talk about it! I go to the gym about three times a week at my own pace, so if you have any recommendations for exercises, gym accessories, or protein supplements, please let me know!

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

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with Japan Switch!

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The post Kominami Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Takahashi Sensei

Chris — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:31:06 +0000

Takahashi Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School, Kichijoji Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"Studying a language means learning not only the language itself but also the culture and ways of thinking of the people who speak it."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

My inspiration to become a teacher came from my Chinese language teacher when I was living in China. She spoke excellent Japanese and initially taught me entirely in Japanese. However, as my Chinese improved, she gradually stopped using Japanese. What impressed me the most was how she tailored our conversations to use only the words I had learned, making it possible for me to engage in Chinese-only discussions during our lessons. This boosted my confidence and made me enjoy speaking the language more and more. I admired how she adjusted her teaching to my language level, and since I had always thought Japanese was a beautiful language, I began studying to become a Japanese teacher as soon as I returned to Japan.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

Studying a language means learning not only the language itself but also the culture and ways of thinking of the people who speak it. I feel immense happiness when my students gain an understanding of Japan through Japanese and experience feelings like joy, excitement, and curiosity. I particularly love seeing their smiles when something they didn’t understand suddenly becomes clear.

How are your lessons?

Japanese is essential for daily life in Japan, and I aim to help make your life here more enjoyable and smoother through my lessons. I also deeply appreciate that my students have chosen to study Japanese, and I want to foster mutual understanding by sharing both similarities and differences between Japanese and your native language or way of thinking.

What are your hobbies?

I love traveling and watching sports.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

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The post Takahashi Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Hashida Sensei

Chris — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 03:00:26 +0000

Hashida Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School, Kichijoji Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"I aim to build confidence in speaking, ensuring that students practice real-life daily conversations. I want every student to leave each lesson with a sense of accomplishment."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

My journey to becoming a Japanese teacher began with my first trip abroad. I spent three months on a tourist visa, attending a language school during the day to study English. In that class, none of us spoke the same language, so we relied on gestures and body language to communicate. I was determined to understand my classmates, which made me think deeply about how we connect with others. The sense of connection that flowed when we finally understood each other, the feeling of mutual understanding, was truly moving.

This experience was a turning point in my life. It showed me the power of communication that transcends nationality, age, and profession, profoundly changing my perspective and shaping who I am today. I became captivated by the "chemical reactions" that occur when people from diverse cultures and backgrounds respect each other’s differences and make an effort to understand one another. This fascination led me to choose the path of a Japanese teacher. I want to share the special feelings I experienced back then, and the joy of connecting on a deeper level, with those who have chosen to come to Japan. Now, I feel a deep affection when I see everyone in a group class laughing together about the same topic. Those moments are truly precious to me.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I don’t enjoy teaching in a one-sided manner. Instead, I love learning and challenging myself alongside my students. The mutual journey of exploration and growth is what I find most fulfilling in teaching.

How are your lessons?

In my lessons, I focus on several key aspects. First, I aim to build confidence in speaking, ensuring that students practice real-life daily conversations. I want every student to leave each lesson with a sense of accomplishment. To achieve this, I often use a Q&A format where students practice answering questions in full sentences repeatedly until they feel comfortable and capable. My goal is to help learners use the language independently, encouraging self-directed learning and connecting language activities with real-life situations. I believe it's important for students to talk about themselves and their experiences, making them the main focus of the lesson, while I act as a supporting guide.

What are your hobbies?

In my free time, I enjoy having a drink and watching Netflix, although I haven't had much time for it lately due to lesson preparation. I also have a keen interest in exploring the differences in nuances between English and Japanese. To me, language is like fashion; it's a tool and a weapon that can help you present yourself to the world. You can choose the words you use depending on the situation, the context, and the person you’re speaking with. My goal is to help you expand your range of choices in language, so you can express yourself in the best way possible.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Hashida Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Saito Sensei

Chris — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:59:06 +0000

Saito Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"I believe in the theory that 'smiling increases productivity.' With that in mind, I strive to create an atmosphere where everyone in the class (including me!) can have fun."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

For over 40 years until the end of 2023, I worked mainly for non-Japanese financial institutions, except for three years with a Japanese firm. During my career, I was exposed to highly cross-cultural environments. Notably, during my three-year work experience in London, I worked in a team of 12 people who held nine different passports. It was fascinating but sometimes challenging due to our many differences! After leaving the financial world, I wanted to enter a brand-new field while keeping a cross-cultural focus, which inspired me to pursue a career as a Japanese teacher.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I define teaching as a “client service” activity. Based on my past work experience in client service, I always consider how I can best meet my client's needs. I feel motivated when a student, or client, gives me a smile that indicates they’ve learned something new during class. This is truly the beauty of teaching Japanese. Strengthening ties with people from overseas who live, work, study, or visit Japan is essential. Teaching Japanese plays a key role in enhancing these connections. Through teaching, I want to devote myself to serving the people I meet.

How are your lessons?

I believe in the theory that “smiling increases productivity.” With that in mind, I strive to create an atmosphere where everyone in the class (including me!) can have fun. Until the end of 2023, I was involved in various fields within finance and HR. Therefore, if requested by a student, I’m happy to engage with them during free conversation time.

What are your hobbies?

One of my hobbies is reading novels, particularly those about the end of the Edo Period, called “Bakumatsu.” I enjoy cooking, although it’s more of a daily routine than a hobby now. I love playing with my dog, who is from Australia. The problem is she only recognizes me as one of her friends instead of the boss she should follow, which means my satisfaction only comes when she’s willing to spend her precious time with me.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Saito Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Abe Sensei

Chris — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 02:21:52 +0000

Abe Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School, Online Japanese Lessons
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"Language is a tool. The more you use it, the better you get. Eventually, you can master this tool to express yourself freely. "

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

I used to hate studying in school, especially English, which I gave up on in my first year of junior high. A few years ago, however, things changed. With various changes happening around me, I decided to try something new and started taking online English lessons, despite having almost no English skills. It was a mess, but I found it fascinating to try to communicate, no matter how broken my English was, and I appreciated the effort my teachers made to understand me. I began studying English on my own, and one day, as my English improved, one of my online teachers suggested that I become a Japanese teacher. Their encouragement and the fact that I could have such a conversation in English gave me a small boost of confidence, leading me to where I am today.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

Language is a tool. The more you use it, the better you get. Eventually, you can master this tool to express yourself freely. The journey to get there is not always easy, but I know it can be both challenging and fun. I am still on this journey myself. I love sharing this time with my students.

How are your lessons?

I understand that learners are often nervous at first. To be honest, I get nervous every time too. Through repeated lessons, I gradually become your friend who speaks Japanese. As you gain more knowledge of Japanese, you will also have more questions. I want to be the guide who helps you navigate and solve these questions together.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy growing vegetables in a small balcony garden, secretly playing video games while my child naps, and studying English, currently at a around a junior high level.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Abe Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Yamada Sensei

Chris — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:27:50 +0000

Yamada Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"I respect each student's personality - whether they are outgoing or reserved, or whether they focus more on grammar or conversation."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

I lived in the United States for about six years due to my husband's job. During that time, I took ESL classes at a community college and learned English alongside people from various countries, enriching my life immensely. I also had the opportunity to teach Japanese but lacked the skills to do so effectively, which I regretted deeply. After returning to Japan, I became an English teacher for a company. Thanks to my learning experiences in the U.S. and the teaching training I received, I found joy in teaching. However, I eventually faced the barrier of not being a native English speaker, which made me question if I was truly effective. That's when I decided to properly teach my native language. I enrolled in a training course, passed the certification exam, and became a Japanese language teacher.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I find it incredibly rewarding to see my students grow. Even those who initially spoke no Japanese gradually start to understand, speak, and eventually hold conversations in Japanese through our lessons. While it requires effort on both parts, I love being able to support my students on their journey. On top of that, meeting students from various countries with diverse backgrounds allows me to learn a lot while teaching Japanese, which is something I truly enjoy.

How are your lessons?

I tailor my lessons to suit each student's goals. At Japan Switch, we have a wide variety of students: those interested in anime who want to speak Japanese, people learning for business communication, travelers staying for a few months, and those planning to live in Japan long-term. I teach with their specific needs in mind. I also respect each student's personality - whether they are outgoing or reserved, or whether they focus more on grammar or conversation. I strive to create a fun, relaxed atmosphere to help everyone improve. I value each lesson and aim to make it as beneficial as possible.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy Pilates, stretching exercises, and cooking, especially baking bread. The smell of freshly baked bread makes me happy. I also love ikebana (flower arranging) and floral arrangements. While I sometimes buy flowers from the shop, I often create arrangements with flowers from my garden and display them at home.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Yamada Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Otsu Sensei

Chris — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 01:50:52 +0000

Otsu Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"It's a joy to see each student's progress as their knowledge of Japanese accumulates step by step, and seeing them smile is one of the best parts of teaching."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

Ever since my university days, I've had a strong interest in English and a desire to work with people from all over the world. Working part-time as an English teacher, I found teaching both fascinating and rewarding. Occasionally, reading articles and news about foreign residents made me consider how I could support people through the challenges of living abroad. As I explored ways to make a difference using my experiences and abilities, I became increasingly interested in becoming a Japanese teacher - a role I had been curious about for over a decade. My motivation is to not only provide linguistic support as a Japanese teacher but also to deeply understand and meet the broader needs of my students.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

For me, I hope that my students will remember as much as possible, enjoy speaking Japanese a lot, and leave each lesson feeling that speaking Japanese is fun. Seeing the clear expressions of joy on my students' faces when they manage to express themselves or understand something, and feeling their sense of achievement right in front of me, are my favorite moments. Japanese has many expressions that have the same meanings, and I find it rewarding to teach how to use them appropriately in different situations, while hearing the unique questions students have about the language.

How are your lessons?

Meeting and communicating with people from around the world daily, and sharing our cultures, is incredibly stimulating and enjoyable for me; it also allows me to learn a great deal. I take great joy in answering the various questions and addressing the doubts that arise in our day-to-day lives. It's a joy to see each student's progress as their knowledge of Japanese accumulates step by step, and seeing them smile is one of the best parts of teaching.

What are your hobbies?

Singing gospel, watching musicals, and walking my dog are some of my favorite activities!

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Otsu Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Seta Sensei

Chris — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 02:59:42 +0000

Seta Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"I would like to share not only the Japanese language but also the Japanese culture and the spirit of Japan with you through the study of the Japanese language."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

I have lived abroad since I was three months old due to my father's work, and since then I have had many opportunities to come into contact with people and cultures from many different countries. Growing up in such an environment, I have felt that there are a lot of people from abroad who are interested in the Japanese language and culture.

I am very grateful for my life abroad and meeting with people from other countries who helped me. I would like to return the favor by helping you to learn Japanese.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

What do you imagine when you think of the Japanese language and culture?

The Japanese language has some beautiful words that cannot be expressed in a single word, and also some expressions that tend to be a little reserved. I think it’s so very interesting! I would like to share not only the Japanese language but also the Japanese culture and the spirit of Japan with you through the study of the Japanese language.

How are your lessons?

Being a teacher makes me think about how and what I should teach. But, in reality, there are many things that I learn from my students. Therefore, I am truly grateful to my students for allowing me to grow with them as we explore the Japanese language and culture together.

At Japan Switch, we have students from various countries learning Japanese. My motto is to help students enjoy learning Japanese and to pass Japanese culture, customs and spirit on to them while respecting their unique cultures and way of thinking of each student's country. Many of my students aim:

to study at a Japanese university
to need Japanese for your work
to make Japanese friends
to enjoy Japanese anime and manga

I am very glad that you have chosen to come to Japan for any reason. I am trying my best every day to be a good supporter of you rather than a teacher so that you feel “My life in Japan is comfortable and enjoyable!” and “I’m happy I’m learning the Japanese language!” I really look forward to supporting you as you learn Japanese at Japan Switch!

What are your hobbies?

I like playing tennis, figure skating, watching baseball games and traveling.

My favorite Japanese professional baseball teams are the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Of course, I also watch Major League Baseball.

I love to travel both abroad and within Japan. I enjoy seeing world heritage sites and going to natural hot springs

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Seta Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.

Kobayashi Sensei

Chris — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 01:39:37 +0000

Kobayashi Sensei

Shinjuku Japanese Teacher

Branch: Shinjuku Language School
Lessons: Group and Private Lessons

General Inquries

Free Consultation

"I became a Japanese language teacher because I wanted a job that would make the lives of foreigners living in Japan more enjoyable."

Why did you become a Japanese teacher?

I lived in China for two years and learned Chinese there. I started from a place where I could not speak Chinese at all, but I found a very good teacher and gradually became able to speak Chinese. Not only was it useful in my daily life, but I also began to find the Chinese language itself interesting. I became interested in many things, and my life in China became more enjoyable. I became a Japanese language teacher because I wanted to do a job that would make the lives of foreigners living in Japan more enjoyable and make them want to use Japanese more, just like my teacher.

What do you like about teaching Japanese?

I am very happy when I see my students say what they want to say in Japanese, phrases they were afraid to say at first, but can say with more and more confidence. It is also an enjoyable experience to learn interesting and unique aspects of the Japanese language that Japanese people do not notice.

How are your lessons?

You will become familiar with the phrase by saying it out loud a lot. During conversation practice, I will also tell you what emotion you should be feeling when you say this phrase and what tone you should be using. Questions are welcome. Please don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have.

What are your hobbies?

My hobby is traveling. I especially enjoy visiting temples, shrines, and other historical places. The most impressive place I visited recently was Usa Jingu Shrine in Oita Prefecture. There are several shrines in the mountains, and it was very pleasant to walk around them. I also like to watch manzai and Osaka comedies. It is fun to laugh out loud and loudly.

Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.

Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!

Start Speaking Japanese Today

The post Kobayashi Sensei appeared first on Japan Switch.